Richlands man, family displaced after fire

Tuesday

A Richlands man said he is grateful his family is alive after a weekend fire burned his home and members of his family.

A Richlands man said he is grateful his family is alive after a weekend fire burned his home and members of his family.

At approximately 2:30 a.m. Saturday, Troy Walton of 154 Batchelor Road said he woke up to an unusual sound.

“I heard something beeping,” Walton said. “I got up and something smelled like smoke. I realized my house was on fire and I told my wife and my son to get out and call 911.”

The Nine Mile Fire Department, which is less than half-a-mile away from their home, responded to the blaze, which was put out within approximately 15 minutes, Onslow County Fire Marshal Brian Kelly previously told The Daily News.

According to Walton, his wife, Chelvy, had serious burns on her neck and she is in Chapel Hill being treated for them. Their son, Joey, is also being treated for burns he sustained during the fire, according to Troy Walton.

“My wife is very depressed right now,” Troy Walton said. “We're not sure if we'll be able to live in our home again.”

According to American Red Cross spokesman James Jarvis, the family's needs are being addressed by the organization's Central North Carolina Chapter. Jarvis said the family is currently staying in Chapel Hill.

“I just thank God we got out alive,” Troy Walton said.

Bridget Dixon, who owns the Manna Cafe and Grill down the street from the Walton's home, said the family is a “quiet” one made up of “good people” that need the community's assistance now more than ever.

“They're nice folks and they never bother anyone,” Dixon said. “They're the kind of people who help you out if they can. They're going to need help.”

Troy Walton said those wanting to assist his family can write to 123 Hewitt Road Richlands, NC 28574 and address it to Troy Walton.

The Nine Mile Volunteer Fire Department and the Onslow County Fire Marshal's office were not immediately available for comment.

Christopher Thomas is a staff writer for the Daily News. To contact him, send an e-mail to christopher.thomas@jdnews.com For online subscription information, click here

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